Refined by Fire: A Teen's Journey Through Cancer and Faith

by Christian Englert

When 15-year-old Christian Englert is diagnosed with an aggressive and rare form of brain cancer, he is forced to confront the most terrifying challenge of his the possibility of losing everything he once took for granted. Already questioning his faith in God and even doubting His existence, he’s suddenly thrown into the fiery storm of cancer treatments. As the disease takes hold, Christian’s body, mind, and spirit become battlegrounds. He embarks on a personal spiritual journey - wrestling with doubt, anger, and despair, but through it all, he finds hope, peace, and purpose. He learns to fight not just for his life but for a deeper understanding of what it means to live with faith in the face of adversity. Throughout his war on cancer, with a host of family and friends surrounding him in love and prayer, Christian discovers that God has never left him. This memoir serves as a powerful testament to resilience, strength, and faith when they are tested by the fiery trials of life. It’s a raw, inspiring story about love, loss, and finding Jesus’ light in the darkest of times.

197 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 13, 2025

Reviews

[nichole pottorf · Rating 5 out of 5]

I want to give Christian the utmost respect for writing this book and telling his story. It was really special to me as I have a son who suffers from the same tumor Christian had. Because their tumor is so rare, it is interesting to see how treatments and surgeries varied and side effect developed. Christian's continued faith was amazing. I wish that I could possess the amount of faith that he does at such a young age. Wonderful job and God bless.

[Sharla · Rating 5 out of 5]

Refined by Fire is an extremely well-written story of how a rare brain cancer diagnosis and subsequent medical and spiritual journey shaped this young man’s faith. Struggling with doubt about the existence of God can be a taboo subject among the Christian community, but the author did not shy away from sharing his struggles, which made his story even more relatable.
Outstanding read; you will be uplifted and encouraged by this amazing book!

[Lauren Englert · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was an honest and raw story of the trial that was going through cancer. I was brought through every appointment and treatment with him, and I felt his confusion and anxiety. I was also reminded that trials bring us closer to Him. This story was one full of hope and the Lord’s faithfulness. It was a great reminder that even through trials, we are not alone, and truly have a steadfast Lord that can redeem all. Thank you, God for being our Wonderful Counselor, and thank you Christian for being so open and honest with your story.